4 Exotic Hot Stops For Your Indonesian Sailing Getaway

With almost 20,000 islands to its waters Indonesia makes one of the most diverse sailing experiences you can find in one country. From the hustle and bustle of Bali’s Kuta beach to the virgin sand of the Gili Islands, Indonesia offers up the perfect cocktail of crystal waters, white sand and tropical skies for a sailing cruise with a difference.

To the east of Bali you’ll find a stretch of tropical stops from Lombok to the tip of Timor, with some of the world’s best locations for surf, snorkeling and diving scattered along the way.

Lembongan Island

Nusa Lembongan is a small island just to the southeast coast of Indonesia’s famous Bali – fast becoming one of the iconic island’s most popular day breaks. You won’t find any of chaos Bali’s Kuta beach here, just crystal blue waters and an ideal setting to put your feet up and relax.

You’re sailing some of Indonesia’s safest waters along this line of tropical islands and, aside from the usual sailing essentials, the only survival gear you’ll need on this trip is some waterproof sunscreen, a bathing costume and your snazziest pair of designer sunglasses.

The Gili Islands

There are 26 Gili islands surrounding the much larger Lombok, ranging from untouched sands to honeymoon spots and a party island for good measure. The famous three – Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno – are high on the list of must-see islands for any trip to Indonesia and you won’t find a road or car in sight on this stunning collection of tropical paradises.

If the famous three are a little crowded for your liking (not that it gets much more chilled than Gili Meno) dig your toes into the sand of the Sekotong Peninsula’s 13 surrounding Gili Islands.

Lombok

Lombok makes a perfectly gentle reintroduction to a world mapped out in roads and motor vehicles, but you won’t remember any of the stress that comes with traffic or road works on this laidback island. In fact you can easily whittle the days away cruising the hilly terrain of Lombok and its spectacular views.

The local Susak people are renowned for their music talent and you don’t have to go far to hear the strings of an acoustic guitar or a music venue for the night. If your feet are tired of being rested you can pump some blood with a trek up Indonesia’s tallest Volcano, Mount Rinjani, or visit the famous “Monkey Forest“.

Komodo

Komodo is one of the busier stops along Indonesia’s tropical stretch and anchoring at its popular bays can be tricky. Mostly famed for the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, its pristine waters are highly recommended for their tropical beauty and diving opportunities.

Indonesia is one of the top sailing destinations in the world, but make sure you have you sunblock and sunglasses to protect you from harmful UV rays, but it is hot and bright!